Nate Burleson, a former NFL wide receiver turned sports commentator, is making waves in the sports media world. He has expressed his desire to host The NFL Today, a pregame show on CBS, but is willing to wait for the right moment. This is a bold move, as it involves openly vying for a position currently held by the legendary James Brown, who has been a fixture on the show for decades.
In an interview with Front Office Sports, Burleson shared his aspirations, stating, 'I want James Brown around for as long as I can have him.' This sentiment highlights his respect for Brown and his desire to learn from the best. Burleson's humility is evident as he acknowledges the challenge of openly pursuing a position that is not yet his.
The article delves into the complexities of such a transition. Brown, at 75, has no immediate plans to retire, and networks have been known to force awkward handovers, especially if a successor might have better opportunities elsewhere. The rise of international games, which could lead to more 9:30 a.m. ET kickoffs, further complicates the situation. This shift could make pregame shows less relevant, as viewers might prefer watching live games instead.
The NFL's expansion plans and the changing media landscape raise questions about the future of pregame shows. Burleson's willingness to wait and learn from Brown is a strategic move, but it also underscores the challenges of navigating the sports media industry. As the NFL continues to evolve, the role of pregame hosts may need to adapt, and Burleson's patience and respect for the status quo could be a key asset in his pursuit of hosting The NFL Today.
